If we change behavior, we can influence climate

Thank you for an accurate and needed editorial, “Global Warming: It’s real, it’s now and it can’t be ignored” (April 22). You correctly stated that every single major U.S. and international scientific organization has attested to the basic facts of global warming.

But you also should have pointed out that these same scientific organizations state that climate change is caused largely by human activities. This is important because it means humans can positively influence the climate by changing our destructive behavior.

After Pearl Harbor, we had massive mobilization and sacrifice to defend against a real threat. This climate threat is real, and we need to massively mobilize and sacrifice again. Obviously, the U.S. cannot do it alone because the problem is global, but our example and leadership make a solution more likely to happen.

Although new technology will help, it can be done with the tools we have. This includes conservation, increased energy efficiency, smart power grids, clean alternative energy, green agricultural methods, food choices and protection of our forests. The longer we wait the more difficult and expensive it will be.

Let’s make every day Earth Day.
JAMES E. JONES, M.D.
Physicians for Social Responsibility
New Cumberland